Markham Dentist Tips for Taking Care of Dental Braces

Aug 28, 2024

Taking care of dental braces is crucial for ensuring successful orthodontic treatment. Proper care not only helps in achieving desired results but also prevents potential problems. Let’s explore why it’s essential to maintain good oral hygiene and follow other guidelines while wearing dental braces in Markham, ON.

Proper Oral Hygiene with Braces

Maintaining proper oral hygiene with braces is pivotal for preserving dental health and preventing potential complications. Here’s a comprehensive guide on how to ensure optimal oral hygiene while wearing dental braces:

Brushing Techniques for Braces

Brushing your teeth after every meal is imperative to eliminate food particles and plaque buildup. Follow these steps for effective brushing with braces:

Use a toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste to gently clean your teeth and braces.
Keep the toothbrush at a 45-degree angle towards the gum line to thoroughly clean around the brackets and wires.
Employ small circular motions, focusing on areas where the braces meet the teeth.
Make sure to brush the chewing surfaces and the backs of your teeth to maintain oral hygiene.

Flossing Methods with Braces

Flossing with teeth braces necessitates extra care but is essential for removing food crumbs and plaque. Here’s how to floss effectively:

Utilize a floss threader or orthodontic floss to thread the floss under the wires and between the two teeth.
Gently glide the floss up and down each side of the tooth and under the gum line to dislodge plaque and debris.
Ensure to use a new section of floss for each tooth to avoid the spread of bacteria.

Using Interdental Brushes or Floss Threaders

Interdental brushes and floss threaders are invaluable tools for cleaning between brackets and wires:

Interdental brushes, shaped like cones, are adept at cleaning between brackets and wires. Gently insert them between each bracket and wire, moving back and forth to dislodge trapped food particles.
Floss threaders facilitate threading dental floss underwires, simplifying flossing between teeth.

Foods to Avoid with Braces

Certain foods pose a risk of damaging braces or causing difficulties in cleaning. Here’s a rundown of foods to avoid:

Sticky and Chewy Foods to Avoid: Caramels, taffy, and gummy bears can adhere to brackets and wires, making them challenging to clean and increasing the likelihood of cavities. Sticky snacks like caramel popcorn or fruit snacks should also be avoided.
Hard and Crunchy Foods That Can Harm Braces: Nuts, popcorn kernels, and ice cubes can bend wires or break brackets, causing discomfort and prolonging treatment time. Crunchy snacks like chips and pretzels also pose a risk of damaging braces.

Suggestions for Braces-Friendly Alternatives

Swap out problematic foods for braces-friendly alternatives to safeguard your braces and maintain oral hygiene:

Choose soft fruits like bananas, berries, and grapes over sticky or chewy snacks.
Opt for softer alternatives to crunchy snacks, such as steamed vegetables, yogurt, or cheese.

Regular Adjustments and Visits to the Orthodontist

Regular adjustments and visits to your orthodontist are instrumental in ensuring the success of your orthodontic treatment:

Importance of Adjustments for Effective Progress: Orthodontic adjustments gradually shift teeth into the position you want, ensuring treatment progresses smoothly. Your orthodontist will make necessary adjustments during each visit to Markham cosmetic dentistry.
Frequency of Orthodontist Visits for Check-Ups: Patients with braces typically require visits every 4–6 weeks for adjustments and check-ups to monitor progress and address concerns.
What to Expect During a Typical Adjustment Appointment: Your orthodontist will assess your braces and teeth, adjust as needed, and offer guidance on maintaining oral hygiene.

Dealing with Discomfort or Pain from Braces

Discomfort or pain, especially after adjustments, is common. Here’s how to manage it effectively:

Tips for Managing Soreness After Adjustments: Rinse your mouth with warm salt water, apply orthodontic wax to alleviate irritation, and consume soft foods until the discomfort subsides.
Over-the-Counter Pain Relief Options: Ibuprofen or acetaminophen can help relieve soreness caused by braces. Follow dosage instructions and consult your orthodontist if needed.
Remedies for Mouth Ulcers or Irritation from Braces: Apply topical anesthetic gel to affected areas or rinse with a saltwater solution to promote healing and reduce inflammation.

Handling Broken or Damaged Braces

In the event of broken or damaged braces, take these steps:

Steps to Take in Broken Brackets or Wires: Avoid manipulating broken wires to prevent injury. Use orthodontic wax to temporarily cover sharp edges, and book an emergency appointment with your orthodontist.
Temporary Solutions to Prevent Further Discomfort: If a bracket becomes loose, gently reposition it and apply orthodontic wax until repairs can be made.
Importance of Contacting the Orthodontist Promptly for Repairs: Promptly inform your orthodontist about broken or damaged braces to avoid treatment delays and complications.

Conclusion

Proper oral hygiene with braces is necessary for achieving optimal results and maintaining dental health. Following these tips and guidelines allows you to navigate your orthodontic treatment journey smoothly. Regular visits with your dentist in Markham will help you observe the progress and address any concerns.

Ready to ensure your dental braces journey is smooth and successful?

Contact New Delhi Dental today for expert care and guidance in family dentistry in Markham. Let us be your partners in oral health and wellness. Book your appointment now and commence on the journey to a confident smile that lasts a lifetime.